Abstract

Research on simulating user behaviour to predict machine performance was originally started during mid 40s. Computational psychologists pioneered in modelling the mind by considering it as an ensemble of processes or programs. This stream of research gained much practical importance with the introduction and popularity of the interactive computer systems in mid 80s. There were numerous attempts during the past two decades to simulate users’ behaviour for computers and other digital electronic appliances. However, most researches ignored users with disabilities due to the diverse range of abilities. My research has added a new dimension in cognitive modelling by including users with disabilities. In particular, I have developed a simulator that can predict the likely interaction patterns when undertaking a task using a variety of input devices, and estimate the time to complete the task in the presence of different disabilities. In this talk, I shall describe different components of the simulator in detail. I shall also present my investigation on tracking eye gaze patterns of people with visual impairment and on evaluating the effect of hand strength on pointing performance of people with motor-impairment. I shall conclude by discussing the implications and limitations of my study from a broad perspective of interactive system design and user modelling.